The Great River Regional Library’s (GRRL) annual fundraiser is underway once again, however this year the campaign has undergone a makeover. Previously known as “High $5,” the campaign is now called “Locally Growin,” and all the money raised by each library will stay at that library.

 

The mission of the fundraiser is to help each GRRL branch raise the funds they need for something special.

 

“We’re very happy we’re going to be able to keep the money here in Clearwater and go forward with providing more services for our patrons,” said Clearwater Librarian Cyrene Bastian.

 

In the past, 40% of the money raised through the High 5 fundraiser went to the local libraries and the remainder went to GRRL to support the entire library system. As the money came from local communities, many felt the funds should be kept at the local libraries where it originated from. 

 

During meetings held with GRRL branch managers and library services, the question as to why all the money couldn’t be kept at each local library was raised, and the decision to make the change was made.

 

Each of the 32 branches in the GRRL system has its own unique goal. Becker Library’s fundraising goal is $300 this year. The money raised will be used for programs such as St. John’s Outdoor University, author Joe Kimball and the purchase of book club kits. 

 

“We also have items on our tree that can be purchased and returned to the library as a donation, rather than monetary donations,” said Becker Librarian Jeannette Burkhardt. “These items include things like Legos and Duplos, wooden kids’ puzzles, bean bag chairs and fun, colorful children’s posters.”

 

Clearwater Library’s fundraising goal this year is $740, chosen by Bastian because it’s the address number on the library’s front door. The money raised will be used for program supplies, grab n’ go kits, wooden puzzles, a K’nex kit, performers for children’s programs and library shelving.

 

Although most of the items purchased with ‘Locally Growin’ funds will remain at each individual library, some of the others, such as book club kits, will become part of the rotating collection that benefits all branches and patrons.

 

GRRL’s ‘Locally Growin’ fundraiser continues through the end of March. All donations are tax deductible. To learn more or give online, visit griver.org/locally-growin.

 

GRRL provides library services at 32 public libraries in Benton, Morrison, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd and Wright Counties. GRRL supplies the residents of Central Minnesota with nearly one million books, CDs and DVDs, 250 public computers, programming and information services.